Evans an early hit

Jonny Evans showed Sunderland fans the value of manager Roy Keane’s contacts as he enjoyed a

hugely impressive home debut in a dire game ruined by the wind.

The exceptional 18-year-old central defender is assured at least four years at Old Trafford after signing a new contract. Sir Alex would only allow him to join Sunderland on loan when the ink was dry on the deal.

After an impressive debut marking David Nugent at Preston, the Northern Ireland international caught the eye again in a dire game ruined by the wind, snuffing out any danger posed by the awkward Alan Lee and the lively substitute Danny Haynes, a young whippet with a firm shot.

His 62nd minute goal-line clearance to deny Lee after Haynes's shot was parried by Darren Ward preserved David Connolly's winner to take Sunderland within a point of the play-off places.

And Evans is enjoying his reunion with Keane.

"A lot of players would say that he was their favourite player. I grew up watching United on TV in the treble year and he was my favourite player," he said.

"I remember the Juventus game when he got the header and just kept despite the booking and that inspired me and a lot of others to keep going. It was a motivation.

"I went to see Sir Alex in his office and I knew he wouldn't let me go until I signed a new contract. He asked me where I wanted to go. I said Sunderland.

"He rang Roy Keane and then he got in touch with me and my parents, which was nice. He gave me the go-ahead. I was so excited to come up.

"It was a big confidence booster to get back to England and play in this league. It's only a six months period that I'm here for but who knows. Ben Foster was at Watford last season and he has stayed there because it furthered his development. I don't know if Sir Alex would let me stay or not. But I'm loving it.

"There are a lot of centre backs at United but if you can't be better than them, there's no point in being at that club.

"I want the best for United, because I'm a fan, and I would accept it if I'm not good enough. I've got confidence in my own ability, though. A lot of the players give you advice but it's up to you to watch those players, to try to aspire to what they do on the pitch."